#Miami, Dine #RosaMexicano ,Elevate Your #TacoTuesday ! ~ @RosaMexicano Review by #SobeSavvy .com

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Taking up the ground floor of the iconic 1111 Lincoln Rd garage building sits Rosa Mexicana. http://www.rosamexicano.com/miami

Adjacent to the movie theatre, it is the perfect place to have dinner or lunch prior or post movie. Is it a “chain” restaurant? Yes, but you would never know it by the quality of food and service. It feels more like a high end independent restaurant in Ciudad Mexico. Inviting décor..not too dark and not too bright. Their menu runs the gamut, from Mexican street food to dishes curated to perfection by their executive chefs.

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Their long bar with views of various flat screens makes this the perfect place to watch the game on Sunday or the news after work at their renowned Happy Hour. The tequila choices here are quite expansive. It is a sort of tequila hall of fame. Some are great with cocktails and some high end ones are what I call sippin tequilas. Complex as any wine. Their bartenders go through a vigourous vetting process prior to being hired. They can educate any novice on tequila choices that fit your mood. We had a pitcher of sangria and the pomegranate margarita. Both were awesome.

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Their guacamole is iconic. It is made tableside from scratch right in front of your own eyes. In the processed bottle and canned world we inhabit, this was refreshing. Hass avocados are peeled and tomatoes, onions, herbs and spices are hand blended. You can request mild, medium or hot. We decided one medium and one mild. Both were mouth watering and went great with the warm tortilla chips. In Oct they are celebrating an event called “Guactoberfest”. So if you are a “guac” lover be sure to stop by.

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We decided to get a broad spectrum of their most popular dishes. Pork carnitas, Tacos camarones, Pollo with plantains and Mexican corn. Each choice stood out as individual perfection. It helped to soak up all that Sangria !! My daughter loved to cherry pick out the fried shrimp so she was ecstatic. The hostess gave her a kids packet of coloring book and crayons. Rosa Mexicano loves kids and families and it showed .

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We “forced” ourselves to try some dessert. The churros were out of this world. With a trio of dippin sauces we ended up fighting over the last one !! The raspberry tres leches and peanut butter/chocolate molten cake was rich and divine. Our visit to Rosa Mexicano was apleasurable one to say the least.

Viva La Mexico !!

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Photographs of Cocktail Consciousness~ @GaleSobe @ExhaleSpa @AbsolutelyX~Recap by #SobeSavvy .com

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Yogis..Sunsets..and Cocktails..Oh My!

Celebrating National Yoga Month,
SobeSavvy.com attended an event on the Gale Rooftop featuring:

Yoga Class from 7-8
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A complimentary cocktail from Absolut Elyx
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Free Manicures and Chair Massages from 8:00-10:00 provided by Exhale Spa
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Cash Bar available
Partnering with LDV Hospitality are Exhale Spa and Absolut Elyx Vodka
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This was an RSVP only event, free and open to the public from 6:00pm – 11:00pm
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The class was led by Morgan Anderson-Reed, who is an Exhale Spa Mind Body Manager and a very talented trainer!
Exhale Spa is also doing a special in honor of National Yoga Month for 2 for 1 yoga classes… plus they have their big yoga event NamasDay on the 24th taking place at the Epic Hotel location!
There is also an online promo going on – 25% off spa therapies if you book online… amazing deal!
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I also had the pleasure of meeting Jessica Schreiner, who is the events manager for exhale at the loews south beach hotel, located at 1601 collins ave, miami beach, fl 33139 t: 305.200.1301
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Enjoy this photo slideshow from the amazing event !Namaste!
https://instagram.com/p/71n3_ZiXFz/

#SobeSavvy enjoys #ResortLife @BonnetCreek #HiltonBonnetCreek ~ A #soTravelsavvy Recap

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Spending the day at the theme parks in Orlando was going to be tiring. Knowing that, my family {hubby and a 4 yr old} needed a base camp to spend the previous day and evening relaxing before heading into the amazing theme parks there. We had three unwavering conditions that had to be met before deciding on a spot. 1. Awesome pool area for everyone. Not just a kiddie pool or a adult pool overran by kids. 2. A “real” luxury resort, not a low end motel masquerading as a “resort”. 3. Good Food. Finding those 3 things may sound easy, but anyone who visits Orlando knows that tourist traps await the uninformed. Cheap prices or deals too good to be true usually are.

With those prerequisites we decided on the Hilton Bonnet Creek Resort in Lake Buena Vista http://www.hiltonbonnetcreek.com. Being familiar with the Hilton product, we felt this was the right choice. Their pool area was perfect. Big enough for adults to relax and also a REAL lazy river section that is incredible. They also have a small water slide that we all enjoyed. We even had couple of great cocktails from their pool area bar called “Beech”.

Our room was modern clean and comfortable. Fast Wifi and comfy luxurious bedding. After a post pool clean up we went to dinner at one of the numerous onsite restaurants. We chose the Harvest Bistro. Everything was great. The Steakhouse Burger and Roasted Chicken was superb. My little one loved their in house Candy Shop near the entrance. In the morning we stopped by their 24 hr grab and go store called Muse for some oatmeal and coffee. They also provide free charter transportation to and from the major parks. Proximity to most of the parks is very close.They have a regular schedule and it was accurate. Great stay at the Hilton Bonnet Creek. Will be my preferred lodging the next time I am in Orlando.

Enjoy my IG slide show below :
https://instagram.com/p/7jc3MICXC1/

#Yoga Me Impressed, #Namaste Right Here @Kimpton @KimptoninDC #MonacoBaltimore @PublicBikes~ #soDMVsavvy #Travel

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One of my New Year resolutions was to incorporate fitness in my life and embark upon a more healthy lifestyle. I decided to practice yoga because it was something that I could consistently do. It embraces all levels of fitness, ages and can be done anywhere at anytime. Through yoga workouts and breathing exercises one can maintain physical fitness and serenity.

Serenity… that is something that’s often missing in travel but does not have to be. Being in transit does not mean one can not stay in shape and have a peaceful mind. Many hotels are starting to cater to the healthy lifestyle of travelers and are providing healthier lifestyle accomodations.

A few months ago, I stayed at a Kimpton Hotel ~ Hotel Monaco ~ because I needed to be close to Royal Farms Arena to photograph the sneak peek of Cirque du Soleil’s return to Baltimore ( http://atomic-temporary-51558291.wpcomstaging.com/2015/07/09/photographs-of-cirque-in-baltimore-sneak-peek-varekaicirquedusoleilmdsciencecenter-phillipsseafood/).  Although it was last minute reservation and  a short one night stay, I thought I would share with my fellow yogis how Kimpton Hotels has a health-focused approach to hospitality. When you get to your room, call the front desk and ask them to send up a tote bag. They will bring a complimentary bundle of mats, straps, bands and props, which you may use for the duration of your stay. The tote provides all the necessities for yoga, meditation and Pilates. I liked having the option to start the morning with a sun salutation ,carry the mat in the cute tote bag to practice outside ( which I did ) or end every night with child’s pose. Although yoga was not something my travel companion enjoys, Kimpton Hotels also features free on-demand fitness programs on your in-room TV, meaning you can squeeze in a workout while still in pajamas!

We got a chance to do some quick local exploring via bikes courtesy to all hotel guests (no time for the  downtown Baltimore attractions this visit, although this hotel is conveniently located near the Inner Harbor and more ).  We rode around on one of Kimpton Hotels state-of-the-art bikes at every location, allowing for some major calorie-torching while sightseeing. Even better, this hotel is healthy for the environment. By implementing ‘green’ initiatives like non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning products, complimentary parking for hybrid vehicles, and an on-site water filtration system that eradicates the need for bottled water, Kimpton Hotels take health and wellness to a global level.

So whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, you can rest assured  that you can keep your health a top priority by staying at KIMPTON Hotels.

Enjoy my yogi around town/#getLovelyfit @getLovelyfit pictures using Kimpton Hotels yoga mat and @PublicBikes! Namaste!

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‘Lovely’ / Freelance Photojournalist
The ‘Bon Vivant ‘ Blogger
http://www.SobeSavvy.com
Follow Twitter/Instagram @IJust_LoveThis
Hashtag #SobeSavvy #soNCsavvy #soDMVsavvy

#OutandAboutAva Goes on an #Easter2015 @Loews_Hotels #LoewsMiami Daycation~Recap by #SobeSavvy !

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Easter in Miami usually involves the easter bunny, candy and a easter egghunt on the beach ! Loews Miami Beach has all 3 of those prerequisites covered. Some people know Loews as a large convention size hotel. As big as this luxury hotel appears there is one place where intimacy, service and exclusivity merge.That place is an exclusive pool area they call “soak”.

https://www.loewshotels.com/miami-beach/services-amenities/soak

Think sumptuous daybeds, stellar personal service and drink surprises {gratis} served throughout the day in this VIP area. Guests of Soak get a welcome basket of freshly cut fruit and bottled smoothies. Plush towels and face misters. Pampering and peace rule the day at Soak. Cabanas and private butler/waiter service are at your disposal. Have drinks, lunch or both !! I loved it, my hubby loved it and most importantly my little one had a blast. Soak it up at Soak.

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#SobeSavvy Celebrates #Easter2015 #Brunch @AmericanSocial_Brickell #Miami #AmSo #Brickell

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The venerable institution on Las Olas called American Social Bar & Restaurant now has a Miami outpost in Brickell

http://americansocialbar.com/brickell/

Located on the ground floor of the Neo Vertika building, it is almost 3 times the size of their Las Olas location. It also has something their other location lacks. An expansive outdoor patio area with fire pits and beautiful views of yachts cruising down the Miami River. You can choose from comfy lounge areas or normal tables. Flat screens abound outside so you can catch a Heat or Dolphins game while dining and drinking al fresco. Expect the same stellar service and cuisine. They have an a la carte brunch menu on weekends. We started with a half dozen of Kusshi oysters from British Columbia. Uber fresh ! By the end of our meal we had tried everything from their Chicken & Waffles to the PEI mussels. The crab scramble disappeared quickly also from our table! The Chicken & Waffles had a reverse twist. The sweetness of marscapone was on the chicken and herbs were infused in the waffles. Uniquely delicious. Bottomless mimosas helped wash all the goodness down. Inside, patrons of the Las Olas location will instantly recognize the tables with the self serving beer spouts on the tables. Yup. Self serve beer. You can order a pre determined amount for your table or party and voila. You too can be bartender for your friends. Great food indoor or out. Good food and good service with a amazing river view. We loved it ! American Social is the kind of place where if you frequent enough, everybody will know your name.

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AMERICAN SOCIAL

Enjoy this photo slideshow
https://instagram.com/p/1D4N3-iXFw/

#OutAndAboutAva Hops over to @JungleIsland #MegaEggaHunt! April 3-5 #Miami #FamilyFun #Easter ~Recap by SobeSavvy.com

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My 3 yr old toddler loves adventure! Every morning she is ready to seize the day and celebrate as if it was a holiday. This Friday starts the Easter holiday weekend and we decided to hop over to Jungle Island for one of the three days of egg-citement as South Florida’s popular attraction debuts a thrilling Mega Egga Hunt! Adventure from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 3-5. Each day, Mega Egga Hunt will feature continuous egg hunts with goodie bags for every child, plus acres of bounce houses, rides, arts & crafts, music, and appearances by the Easter bunny. Guests also can cool off at Jungle Island’s new floating obstacle course, Rainforest Riptide at Parrot Cove. To reserve tickets, visit http://www.jungleisland.com/megaeggahunt.

“Easter weekend is our biggest celebration of the year at Jungle Island,” said Managing Director, Christopher Gould. “This year, our guests can look forward to many more exciting activities as part of the Mega Egga Hunt! Adventure.”

It’s all happening at Jungle Island, home to some of the world’s most fascinating animals. The Mega Egga Hunt! Adventure at Jungle Island is free with paid park admission. Certain restrictions apply. Visit any participating South Florida Publix or Pet Supermarket to pick up a $7 off discount coupon to Jungle Island. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters.

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What’s more, Jungle Island is offering Easter Brunch in the Treetop Ballroom on Sunday, April 5. Call 305-400-7000, follow @JungleIsland on social media, or visit www.jungleisland.com/megaeggahunt. Jungle Island is located at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail in Miami.

About Jungle Island
Jungle Island, a favorite South Florida landmark, is an intimate zoological park located in the heart of Miami, between downtown Miami and South Beach. Building upon a rich tradition that began in 1936, Jungle Island is home to some of the world’s most rare and exotic animals. Park guests enjoy engaging animal shows and informative exhibits while strolling by streams and waterfalls under a lush canopy of tropical trees. Guests can choose to participate in hands-on interactions with fascinating animals or go on guided behind-the-scenes VIP tours. Jungle Island enriches the lives of park visitors through immersive, real-life jungle experiences centered on adventure, animals, discovery and play. With its newly renovated Treetop Ballroom and picturesque outdoor spaces including a private beach, the 18-acre park also serves as Miami’s destination for extraordinary events. Discover Jungle Island today.  

Enjoy these pictures from our family funday at Jungle Island’s Mega Egga Hunt! and have a Happy Easter 2015!
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Longines Global Champions Tour #MiamiBeach @GCT_events #LGCTMiamiBeach #LGCTSelfie ‘s and more…~ #MiamiEvent Recap by #SobeSavvy .com

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April 2 – 4, Behind the Setai, 2001 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

USA’s Kent Farrington, star of the very first Longines Global Champions Tour of Miami Beach Official poster, is confirmed to compete at the highly-anticipated first round of the 2015 season. The World No4 and 2014 World Team Bronze medalist will head up a soon-to-be-revealed stellar line-up of the world’s very best riders and horses competing over three days of world-class sport on the Florida coast for more than $875,000 in prizes. Visitor entry to the event will be free to the public with 1,400 grandstand seats available as the 10th Anniversary season of the ‘Formula One’ of show jumping gets underway. Follow #LGCTMiamiBeach @GCT_events and go to http://www.globalchampionstour.com/events/2015/miami/info/about for more info.

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Today my family and I went to see the World’s best riders compete in this exciting equestrian series! Set on the sands of Miami Beach under the Florida Sun, this was truly a global sporting spectacle. We were able to have free access to a fantastic selection of shopping in the Prestige Village and be up close to the incredible jumps as the horses and riders take to course. See my video of some horse jumping action here : https://instagram.com/p/0-2gnwiXKB/

Enjoy our photo slideshow from Miami Beach, the thrilling launch destination for the 2015 Longines Global Champions Tour !
https://instagram.com/p/0_Zzf-CXMM/

@ExhaleSpa ‘s #Massage..Just what I Kneaded ! ~ #SobeSavvy .com Recaps #ExhaleSpa #southbeach #miami @Loews_Hotels

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Stress….We’ve all experienced it. It’s something that I as a mom, wife, woman, have to manage on the daily.

Yesterday was a day I needed or shall I say “kneaded” some me time, some breathing room and some relaxation.

So I took a deep breath and headed to : Exhale Spa .

Located inside the Loews Hotel Miami Beach Hotel, in the resort’s historic St. Moritz tower, exhale features 16 spa therapy rooms, large full-amenity changing rooms with a steam room and whirlpool, a mani-pedi lounge, Glam & Go express blow dry bar hair services and an expansive gym with a mind body studio, where guests can experience exhale’s transformational Core Fusion and yoga classes.

Exhales’ full menu of spa therapies allow guests to revive and restore with signature restorative massages, award-winning rejuvenating facials, nail care, waxing and eastern healing therapies. Additionally, exhale South Beach’s Well-being Boutique carries the best of the best in fitness and yoga apparel, face and body products, well-being goods and gift items. Both hotel guests and local Miami residents alike are welcome to enjoy exhale South Beach. Memberships to exhale’s mind body studio classes are also available. 

Upon arrival, I received a warm welcome from the front desk reception. After filling out the necessary forms, I was escorted past the Buddha decor to the changing room where a robe and slippers awaited me. Once changed, I lounged in the zen room where the have a variety of hot teas, juice, fruit, and magazines to enjoy.

My therapist Clemencia led me to her room for my 5:30pm appointment for a 60 min DEEP TISSUE massage. This massage focuses on those overworked muscles living well below the surface with this intensely therapeutic massage and is designed to relieve pain associated with muscle knots, heavy physical activity, and everyday stress. This therapy is deliberate and customized, targeting specific areas in need of relief and is also available as a couples massage in select locations.
I really enjoyed the heated bed, the smell of the room, the spa music selection and the product used during the massage. Clemencia was very thorough and kind which made me feel comfortable throughout my entire service.

See here for a List of Exhale Spa Therapies/Massages and to book your next appointment!

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#Miami Gets Served! 1st Annual @TasteofTennis @WSOBE @BRYANBROS @Andrecarmellini @AYSWorld , an UnForgettable #Foodie #Tennis Experience! ~ Recap by #SobeSavvy .com

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Tennis’ winningest doubles team of all time, Bob and Mike Bryan also known as THE BRYAN BROTHERS along with ANDREW CARMELLINI hosted AYS’s 1ST ANNUAL Taste of Tennis Miami
presented by Citi® at W South Beach Hotel & Residences on Monday, March 23 at 7:30pm.

For 15 years, Taste of Tennis has kicked off the US Open Tennis Championships in New York and it
is widely considered the World’s Premier Food & Tennis Experience! The event brings together professional
athletes, top chefs and luxury brands for an unforgettable evening of gourmet food, interactive sponsor
experiences, and appearances by the world’s best tennis players. Tennis personalities and local celebrities will be paired with some of Miami’s best chefs to Serve Up a unique food tasting experience that embraces Miami Beach’s chic lifestyle synonymous with W South Beach. Guests enjoyed the music of DJ Linx poolside while sipping on signature cocktails!

One of our featured cocktails at Taste of Tennis Miami Presented by Citi was the Russian Standard Vodka Grand Slam Gimlet. To enjoy this great cocktail at home, just follow the recipe below:

1.5 ounces Russian Standard Vodka
1 ounces freshly squeezed lime
.75 ounces of Simple Syrup

Add above ingredients, shake vigorously over cracked ice. Strain into a ice filled cup and Garnish with Lime Peel

Participants included: Bob and Mike Bryan, Feliciano Lopez, Ivo Karlovic, Lucie Safarova, Ekaterina Makarova and many others.
Chefs included: Andrew Carmellini (The Dutch) as Exclusive Chef of the Citi VIP Lounge, Paula DaSilva (3030
Ocean), Dustin Ward (BLT Prime), Patricia Yeo (Khong River House), Kerry Heffernan (Wild Fish Direct),
Michele Mazza (Il Mulino NY), Timon Balloo (SugarCane Raw Bar Grill, Bocce, Sushi Samba), Gilberto Arriaza (Gilbert’s Bakery), Thomas Tennant (Ella)

For more information about the 2015 Taste of Tennis Miami presented by Citi, please visit http://www.tasteoftennismiami.com and Follow on Twitter/Instagram :

Hashtags:#TasteofTennis; #CitiMiami; #WSobe; #AYSWorld; #BryanBrothers
Instagram Handles:@TasteofTennis; @WSouthBeach; @BryanBros; @Andrecarmellini; @AYSSports
Twitter Handles:@TasteofTennis; @WSOBE; @BryanBros; @Andrecarmellini; @AYSWorld 

Enjoy my photos/slideshoe recap of this amazing event, As seen on the Scene by SobeSavvy.com !
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https://instagram.com/p/0mOO90CXNB/

 

‘Lovely’ Leslie Heigh / Freelance Photojournalist 
The ‘Bon Vivant ‘ Blogger
http://www.SobeSavvy.com 
Follow Twitter/Instagram @IJust_LoveThis 
Hashtag #SobeSavvy
 
” Social ButterFly News for South Beach and Beyond! “